Socializing and Finding Community with Pokemon Go

Pokemon Go is not only tons of fun, but it’s quickly gaining attention for the sense of community it fosters amongst players. Almost overnight, local Facebook groups have cropped up, players are meeting up at stops and sharing tips with each other, and crowds of Pokemon fans are hiking around parks together. You, too, can maximize your Pokemon Go experience in a few simple ways.

Join a team. Whether you choose Valor, Instinct, or Mystic, joining a team will instantly add a layer of community to your Go experience. Teams need players across the map in every area to win and retain gyms. Facebook groups and subreddits for teams, general and region-specific, are already popping up.

Join a group. Many cities, towns, and regions have specific Pokemon Go Facebook or Reddit groups. If one doesn’t exist for your town, don’t be afraid to start one. Groups are great places to amass information, share tips, coordinate group Pokemon searches, and generally geek out. Unlike online-only groups, physical meetups can be coordinated easily.

Set a lure. Announce where you’re setting a lure on a local group, or just pick a popular Poke Stop. A lure attracts all sorts of Pokemon for all players near it. Everyone wins, and the effect of the lure and incense can stack. This is especially helpful in areas when trying to evolve less common Pokemon. For example, a player could set a lure in an area with Dratinis and camp out in order to catch enough Dratinis to evolve one into a Dragonair. Not only will other players flock to the stop, but they’ll thank you for sacrificing your own items for the greater good.

Contribute your experience. Every bit of information you share with your Pokemon Go community helps, from where you found that Snorlax to what hatched out of your egg. Some groups have set up editable maps where players can add Pokemon sightings and gym and Poke Stop locations. Since competition is limited to between the three massive, main teams, there’s little to lose by sharing information. Also, since very little guidance is provided by Niantic, sharing theories on Eevee evolutions and leveling tips helps everyone be their very best.

Organize a walk. Walking can become a social activity and a way to connect with other players. Exercise doesn’t need to be a chore with Go. Also, walking in groups is safer in some areas and at some times. Walking around at night means catching a Gastly and other nighttime Pokemon, but many players feel unsafe, especially in secluded areas like parks. Practice safety in numbers.

Lastly, as the game states on the loading screen: be aware of your surroundings. There are opportunities all around you.